Living Skills Assessment

When someone is having- or may have- problems living alone, a living skills assessment, administered by a social worker and occupational therapist may be helpful in providing recommendations for assistance. This 2-hour evaluation consists of the following components:

Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills (KELS)

Kitchen Task Assessment

Medication Administration Assessment

Functional Behavioral Profile

Memory and Behavior Problems Checklist

Zarit Burden Interview

At the end of the evaluation, recommendations are provided to the ordering physician, patient and/or caregivers. Some common recommendations:

Assistance for:

Housekeeping

Cooking

Managing finances

Safety/supervision

Managing illnesses and emergencies

Administering medications

Telephone use

Transportation

Leisure activities

Education (estate planning, advanced directives, insurance)

Community support group

Stress management/coping skills

Respite care (adult day care, meals on wheels, etc)

Therapy/nursing assistance in the home

Alternative transportation

Recommendations are provided by the social worker and occupational therapist to the family at the end of the evaluation session. (we always explain that the physician will receive a copy of our report and will discuss final decisions with them.)

Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.